Cole Hamels trade rumors became a hot topic of conversation on "MLB Tonight." The June 7 episode of the show covered Hamels and the Texas Rangers as one of the topics of conversation for Thursday. This isn't the first time that Hamels has come up in the MLB Network segments and it likely won't be the last. With how poorly the Rangers have been playing lately, it could also be foreshadowing of a point in time when the team deals its best starting pitcher.

Hamels in 2018 MLB season

This year with the Texas Rangers, Cole Hamels has made 12 starts for the team.

He has been a victim of poor run support, though, leading to a 3-5 record on the season. Hamels also has a 3.63 ERA, 1.24 WHIP, and 74 strikeouts already. These are his stats through the games on June 6. He is on the mound June 7 against the Houston Astros, which could serve as an audition for other teams. Shutting down one of the best offenses in the league might increase his value.

More reports on MLB trade rumors

A report by The Ringer also mentions the Cole Hamels trade rumors. In the write-up, Hamels is linked to the New York Yankees. The Yankees definitely need to add a starting pitcher and have made no secret of that goal. If they can find a way to afford Hamels without giving up too many prospects, this might just be the perfect fit for the team.

One of the factors working against that happening, though, is that a number of other teams will want to land Hamels.

Seattle Mariners interested?

While James Paxton, who tossed a no-hitter this season for the Seattle Mariners, currently serves as the ace for his team, there are some weak links in the rotation. Following the suspension of Robinson Cano for 80 games, the Mariners suddenly had nearly $12 million available to spend.

Some of that was taken up through the trade for Denard Span and Alex Colome. Could the team also look to add Hamels for a late-season push?

Cole Hamels contract

Hamels makes $23.5 million this season, with $2.5 million of it paid by the Philadelphia Phillies. For the 2019 MLB season, his contract has a team option worth $20 million.

The contract also has a $6 million buyout, should his team not want to pay that sum. It's not a long-term deal by any means, but it comes with enough team control that the Texas Rangers might be able to command several good prospects in return for him.

There continue to be more Cole Hamels trade rumors as the weeks go by. With the Houston Astros and Seattle Mariners starting to run away in the American League West standings, it serves as even more incentive for the Texas Rangers to pull the plug on the current roster. Hamels is definitely available, there are teams with confirmed interest in getting him, and it all predicts that it is only a matter of time until Hamels is pitching for a new franchise.
© ALL RIGHTS RESERVED